What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Sitnalta?
This story began as a classroom assignment in grade seven. I am a hoarder of old writing—nothing I ever scribble down is ever tossed away. Years later, I stumbled across these pages and felt there was something there. The characters of Sitnalta and Najort had never really left me, so I set about rewriting and expanding their world into what it is now. At its heart, it’s a coming-of-age story about the choices one makes that can impact others. It’s a story I deeply believe in and feel is still relevant today.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Sitnalta, what would they be?
I had to ask my daughter for help with this one. See if you can sense a theme. Sitnalta’s song would be “Long Live” by Taylor Swift—full of magic, friendship, and adventure. Supmylo’s song would be “Father Figure” by Taylor Swift, which we feel is self-explanatory. Aud’s song would be “Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift; her love toward Sitnalta is very motherly, and she wants her to stay safe and protected. Najort’s song would be “It’s Nice to Have a Friend” by Taylor Swift, as Sitnalta shows him that he’s worthy of friendship and is so much more than what the world sees him as.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love reading Fantasy. My favourite authors in the genre are Charles De Lint and Rick Riordan. I read all of Riordan’s books with my kids. This is also my favourite genre to write in. I love the freedom fantasy can give me as a writer (provided I stick to the rules I created for the worlds I make).
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
My daughter and I share books. Right now, she’s handed me a copy of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, and I’m looking forward to starting it. But I’m especially excited to check out It’s Not a Cult by Joey Batey. I’m a huge fan of his band, The Amazing Devil, and the book’s synopsis seems right up my alley.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Honestly, I loved writing the Epilogue. It’s such a short little scene, but I was so gleeful writing it since it sets up everything that’s to come in Sitnalta’s world. There’s this great little twist that I can’t get into (spoilers) that I was so happy about.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I tend to do so much of my writing for my novels in pen. I have so many projects strewn about over many notebooks, and (in the case of Sitnalta) a couple of Denny’s placemats. It’s only after I feel I’ve written enough that I start to transcribe it onto the computer.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
Don’t ever sell yourself short. It took me a while to get to this point, but your ideas, who you are as a person, all have value. Don’t ever let anyone take that feeling of self-worth away.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Sitnalta teaches us that everyone has choices, and these choices have the ability to affect change and make the world a better place.
Alisse Lee Goldenberg is the author of the new book Sitnalta
Connect with Alisse Lee Goldenberg
Author Site
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